A root canal is a common dental procedure, with about 15.1 million root canals performed every year. However, still, it is one of the most feared dental procedures out there.
If you or someone close to you requires a root canal, then you have landed on the right page. Below are five things you should know about root canal treatment:
1. A Root Canal Can Save a Tooth
According to experts, a root canal treatment is used to save a decaying or infected tooth, the only alternative to which is extraction. However, about 15% of dental patients in the US avoid getting a root canal due to the myths associated with it. In the end, the only option is to extract the tooth, which is as painful as a root canal, if not more.
The treatment has a high success rate with about 97% of all root canal treatments being a success. During the procedure, the pulp and nerve are removed and the tooth is carefully cleaned and sealed to prevent any damage.
2. Root Canals Can Last a Lifetime
Root canals can last a lifetime when proper care is taken. Your dentist will probably suggest you to get a dental crown or tooth filling as well to improve the chances of your root canal lasting a lifetime.
Proper dental hygiene is very important for a root canal to be a success. You must brush and floss regularly and stay away from unhealthy habits, such as chewing on hard items etc., to ensure longevity.
In addition to this, you will be required to visit your dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and dental exams.
3. Root Canals Are Not Very Expensive
A root canal is not the most affordable dental treatment out there, but it is not as expensive as some people think it is.
The cost depends on several factors including the number of root canals needed, the dentist you pick, and your location as well since the cost varies from state to state.
Nonetheless, the average cost for a front tooth is $700 and $900 for a molar tooth. Your dental insurance may cover all or a part of the charges associated with your root canal procedure so make sure to ask!
4. Root Canals Can Be Painless
A root canal is a painful procedure, but thanks to sedation dentistry you can get it done without feeling any pain. Your dentist will numb the area and perform the procedure without you ever feeling a thing!
While most dentists use mild sedation in a root canal treatment, if your pain tolerance is very low you must let your dentist know in advance so that he or she can choose the type of sedation accordingly.
Other than this, you must make sure to have someone by your side when you go to a dentist for a root canal treatment as you may not be in a condition to drive home after the procedure due to the side effects of sedatives.
Based on the amount and type of sedatives used, the effects can last for a good few hours.
5. The Aftercare Is Easy
You don’t have to worry too much about root canal aftercare as your dentist will provide you with guidance. The only tip is to be careful about what you eat and drink so that you do not end up damaging the tooth. Other than this, visit your dentist as required.
According to Dr. Patrick Healy from Lockport Dentistry in Lockport, IL, a root canal treatment might be your only option to save a decaying tooth. He pushes patients to consider a root canal treatment as early as possible as infections can spread to other teeth and cause severe damage.